How to Construct a Coffee Table from a Whiskey Barrel

Whiskey barrels can be used in numerous home improvement projects. This can range from anything small like garden planters to something elaborate such as an indoor bar. This article provides detailed steps on how to make a rustic coffee table using this raw material.

Start by standing the barrel upright and sawing it in half horizontally. Make sure that both pieces are of the same size. Then, place both on the floor with the top and bottom lids facing up toward the ceiling.

Get a wooden tabletop and centre the two parts beneath it. Secure them by attaching two wooden screws through the tabletop and into the surface of the barrel. The screws typically have sharp tips and do not require starter holes. If you are using a very hard wood, however, use a drill to create a puncture.

Once the entire structure is secure, fill the screw holes with wooden filler. Allow it to set for a couple of hours before proceeding to the next step. Once they are completely dry, sand the top of the table. Pay special attention to the corners to avoid any rough surfaces. The latter may cause scratches when they come into contact with the skin or cling to certain garments such as knitted sweaters.

Finally, stain or paint the table as desired. You may also place an optional glass top for a more enhanced look. If you use one that is half an inch thick, it will carry more than enough weight so you do not need to fasten it.